Nova Scotia Halifax

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

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The Citadel’s Role in Halifax’s History

It’s not an exaggeration to say Halifax, a city on the sea, owes its existence to the Citadel. It was the large hill overlooking the easily defended harbour below that led the British military to found the town there in 1749. Among the first buildings constructed was a wooden guardhouse on top of what would eventually be called Citadel Hill, with Halifax’s first settlers building their homes at the base of the hill, closer to the water. Over the years, as the fort grew, so too did the town, with much of Halifax dedicated to supplying the soldiers with both essential supplies and off-duty entertainment.

Citadel Hill Today

Today, the Halifax Citadel continues to watch over the city’s downtown core, although now its role is as a reminder of Halifax’s past and not as a military fortification. The present Citadel, completed in 1856, is officially called Fort George, named after Britain’s King George II, and is actually the fourth in a series of forts to sit atop what is now known as Citadel Hill. Its distinctive star shape is typical of many 19th century forts built by the British military and gave the garrison sweeping arcs of fire. From its deep defensive ditch, soldiers pointed muskets from every angle of its stout walls and large cannons lined its ramparts. It’s easy to see why no enemy force ever dared to attack the Halifax Citadel.

Things to do Around the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site gives visitors the opportunity to explore the history of the fortress and the soldiers who were stationed there, walk within its walls – both inside and out –, and literally touch a piece of Halifax’s military history.

Tour the Citadel’s Army Museum, which showcases uniforms, weaponry and models of the fort and its soldiers throughout history.

Watch the story of Halifax and the Citadel as told the through imagery, displays and sounds of the Tides of History exhibit.

Take a private or guided tour of the Citadel grounds – just be sure to keep an eye out for the ghosts that are rumoured to lurk in its shadows!

Source: www.novascotia.com

It's Interesting

Halifax is a federal electoral district in Nova Scotia, Canada, that has been represented in the House of Commons of Canada since 1867.
Since October 14, 2008, its Member of the Parliament has been Megan Leslie of the New Democratic Party.
The Riding of Halifax...